Learning how to have a positive mindset during your golden years is about filling your life with moments that spark joy and result in a genuine sense of purpose. The community we live in can have a big impact on healthy thinking in aging. At Rittenhouse Village at Lehigh Valley, in Allentown, PA, residents enjoy the best of the local area, famous for the Allentown Art Museum, the Civic Theatre, and a host of local events, along with the support of a caring community.
According to the University of Utah, up to 20% of US older adults experience mental health issues that are not simply a normal part of the aging process. In a community like Rittenhouse Village at Lehigh Valley, you never have to face these challenges alone. Having the support you need to remain as independent as possible, along with an encouraging community, is one of the best ways to ensure emotional well-being for seniors.
What Are the Benefits of Having a Positive Mindset for Seniors?
A positive mindset does not mean being on a high all the time or ignoring the fact that difficulties arise as part of life. Instead, it means developing healthy thinking in aging so setbacks feel manageable rather than overwhelming. It’s about having techniques and strategies you to back to again and again that help you make the best of each day.
A positive mindset can unlock the following benefits that are critical to a happy retirement.
Coping With Change
Our golden years are times of change for all of us. According to Stanford Medicine, our early sixties are one of two key periods when our bodies undergo periods of rapid change at the micro level, which can change the way we feel.
Additionally, as we get older, we often face the following seismic life changes:
- Having an empty nest
- Retiring from work
- Losing a life partner
- Selling our family home
It can be natural to develop negative patterns of thinking around change. However, mindset resets can help us change these potentially unsettling periods into times full of possibilities.
Enjoyable Engagement
According to a study hosted by the National Library of Medicine, around 24% of US seniors are considered socially isolated. Maintaining emotional well-being for seniors who do not have regular contact with others is challenging.
However, a positive mindset can help you to seek out social engagement, even when you don’t naturally feel like it. You understand that you need it – and that you’ll likely feel a lot better after interacting with others.
At Rittenhouse Village at Lehigh Valley, residents set their own schedule of activities. This allows you to choose the things you love, get the right balance, while ensuring you have regular contact with others.
How to Have a Positive Mindset in Old Age
Staying positive in our senior years often comes down to small daily habits. In a community setting, you have access to extra support, activities, and amenities that make it easier to remain emotionally well.
Daily Affirmations
One helpful practice is using daily affirmations for older adults. These short, encouraging phrases can be repeated when you wake up and again throughout the day.
Some examples include:
- I am strong
- I am still growing and learning
- Today, I will find one new joy
Pair these daily affirmations for older adults with meaningful activities, and you’ll see how they come true.
You’ll see how our fitness and wellness sessions help you stay strong. Our educational classes and craft sessions help you explore your potential to learn new things. And daily interactions with like-minded people bring moments of fun and joy that brighten your day.
Mindset Resets
Sometimes, we all need a few moments to step away from others, pause, reflect, and reset. Emotions can be overwhelming, and our thinking can head down negative pathways.
Recognizing that this is a part of life and that you need a mindset reset is healthy. Our campus is full of areas for quiet moments. Our grounds are a delight – perfect for a few moments reflecting on our reasons to feel grateful in solitude.
Senior Motivation in Winter
Seasonal changes can be challenging. When the Pennsylvania winter sets in and it’s harder to get out of the house, maintaining a positive mindset can be more of a struggle.
At Rittenhouse Village at Lehigh Valley, we counter this potential for negativity by arranging a vibrant calendar of events and activities. Themed parties, craft sessions, and social clubs give you something to look forward to each day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Have to Be Naturally Optimistic to Enjoy a Positive Mindset in Senior Living?
No, not at all. Many residents arrive at senior living communities feeling uncertain, even anxious, about the change. That’s totally natural, but we do everything we can to help you feel relaxed and settled as soon as possible.
Remember, a positive mindset is a skill, not a personality trait. In a supportive environment, daily routines make it easier to practice that skill. Regular social contact, shared meals, and programs that encourage healthy thinking in aging individuals become bright spots in the day.
What Everyday Habits Can Help Seniors Feel Hopeful and Motivated?
Small, consistent habits are often the most effective. Having a structure to your day is important, so every day feels meaningful. For some residents, this means a morning walk around the grounds, a session at a favorite club, or a standing lunch date with a friend. These events can anchor your week and help you to maintain a positive attitude each day.
Discover How to Have a Positive Mindset at Rittenhouse Village at Lehigh Valley
It’s natural to worry about how to have a positive mindset in senior living. After all, it’s a big change. However, you’ll soon see that it’s actually a massive life upgrade!
Prepare to have a healthy way of life, social opportunities galore, and an abundance of positive daily encounters. Enjoy amenities, classes, and activities you could never do on your own.
Rittenhouse Village at Lehigh Valley has been recently renovated, and we’re proud to show you our new look. Come and explore our three senior living communities all on one campus. Schedule your tour today.
